DIY GPS updates for your vehicle

Many newer vehicles with in-dash navigation systems can be easily updated with a simple SD card. Learn more about how to use them and save money by doing it yourself.

Newer vehicles from manufacturers such as Mazda, Mercedes, and Ford have in-dash navigation systems that read map data directly from a SD Card. Here are a few examples:

MAZDA

All of Mazda’s latest vehicles use a 7″ touchscreen called the Mazda Connect. We are HUGE fans of this system…the user interface is in the top of it’s class, with the use of pleasing fonts, relatively quick response as far as in-car systems go, and excellent knob and dial that is set near the user’s right hand, allowing the driver to keep their hands away from the screen.

One of the best features of the system is that you can enable navigation even if the vehicle didn’t come from the factory “activated”. As is common in the auto industry, the lower trims of the Sport and Touring models often don’t have navigation “installed”…it is an extra option that is often only available with the top level trims. The great news – you can purchase the SD card with the latest maps, and insert it into the SD card slot in your vehicle – instantly activating the navigation system!

And to add to that – Mazda allows your SD Card to updated with the latest map versions free of charge by installing their Mazda Toolbox application on your PC or Mac. A truly generous feature from a great carmaker.

You can purchase this SD card directly from your Mazda dealer. It is also available at retailers such as Amazon, as seen below.